The conference is seeking proposals for presentations and papers emphasizing the following themes:

vThe Impact of the Economic Crisis on Families

Suggested topics include, but are not limited to: available funding for subsidies, decisions to delay adoption, role of the extended family, and impact on the number of children placed for adoption.

vThe Impact of Artificial Reproduction on Families

Suggested topics include, but are not limited to: the state’s role in regulating artificial reproduction, the right not to procreate, legal issues involving unused embryos, and resolution of rights and responsibilities in embryo donation and adoption.

vOvercoming Barriers to the Creation of Families for Members of the GLBT Community

Suggested topics include, but are not limited to: laws and public policies limiting adoption by GLBT parents, the impact of these laws from the perspective of the child’s right to permanence,empirical studies on outcomes for children, and alternatives available when second parent adoptions are not permitted.

Participants are asked to a lead a panel discussion on one of the topics above.Each topic will have 3-4 panel members who will present 30-45 minutes each, with discussion to follow.In addition, participants are requested to prepare an article associated with their presentation for publication in the Capital University Law Review next year. The article would be due on September 1, 2010.